A new high ropes park, the first of its kind in Herts, was given the go-ahead as councillors swung behind the plan.

The scheme, put forward by Stevenage Leisure Ltd, can now be built on land currently used to store boats at Fairlands Valley Park sailing centre after Stevenage Borough Council gave the plan the green light.

The wooden structure will have a central tower up to 13 metres in height with access via stairs or a winch with a number of poles radiating from it with walkways and balance beams supported by ropes. It will also feature a climbing wall, ladders and swings.

Jill Eaton of the Stevenage School Sports Partnership, said, “The course will enhance the outstanding leisure facilities already provided at Fairlands and give Stevenage residents and visitors a new and exciting challenge.”

The site will be open to school and community groups in the day, while in the evenings, weekends and school holidays it will be open to the public.

Howard Burrell, Stevenage council member for sport and leisure added: “This new facility will help us to deliver our community strategy priorities of creating healthier lifestyles, helping children and young people to achieve their potential and making leisure more accessible to everyone.”

The project is the result of a partnership between the council, Stevenage Leisure Ltd, Stevenage School Sports Partnership, Extended Schools Consortia and Sport Stevenage. It will be funded by SoStevenage.